Road Shoes v. MTB Shoes
#1
Censorship Stinks!
Thread Starter
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: Texas
Posts: 389
Bikes: Three
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Road Shoes v. MTB Shoes
Hi Everybody -
I would really appreciate your input on this.
I have been a MTB rider for quite a while, but moved into road riding last summer. I have a hard time finding road shoes that fit well, and have been riding on MTB shoes. (I ride a specialized Allez Sport)
I keep hearing from some of the people in my cycling club that I need to go to road shoes. About the only reasons I get from them are that road shoes are lighter and "look" better.
That being said, I am about 10-15 pounds over my ideal weight - I am working on it. Do the few ounces really make a difference, I dont think so. The MTB shoes also make it much easier for me to walk safely.
Are there any other good reasons for me to move over to a road shoe? Support?
By the way, I am in a Specialied PRO MTB shoe, so it is not the bottom of the line shoe.
Thanks,
Matt
I would really appreciate your input on this.
I have been a MTB rider for quite a while, but moved into road riding last summer. I have a hard time finding road shoes that fit well, and have been riding on MTB shoes. (I ride a specialized Allez Sport)
I keep hearing from some of the people in my cycling club that I need to go to road shoes. About the only reasons I get from them are that road shoes are lighter and "look" better.
That being said, I am about 10-15 pounds over my ideal weight - I am working on it. Do the few ounces really make a difference, I dont think so. The MTB shoes also make it much easier for me to walk safely.
Are there any other good reasons for me to move over to a road shoe? Support?
By the way, I am in a Specialied PRO MTB shoe, so it is not the bottom of the line shoe.
Thanks,
Matt
#2
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2001
Posts: 1,652
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
MTB shoes are definately easier to walk in.. the weight I think is a minor factor in my opinion. But I use campagnolo pedals which have same bolt pattern as look pedals which won't go on 90% of mtb shoes.. so there is one reason not to use them atleast for me.
As for comfortable shoes have you tried Sidi's?
As for comfortable shoes have you tried Sidi's?
#3
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2002
Location: Pennsylvania
Posts: 7,481
Bikes: Too many to list!
Mentioned: 1 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 3 Times
in
3 Posts
Generally, road shoes are more rigid. However, you do give up the ease of walking that you have with your mtb shoes. Therefore, it's a tradeoff. If you spend nearly 100% of your road time on the bike, road shoes seem to be a better choice. However, if your road rides consist of some walking, mtb shoes seem to be a better choice.
By all means though, if you're happy with your current set-up, save the $$ and stick with it!
By all means though, if you're happy with your current set-up, save the $$ and stick with it!
#4
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2002
Location: Charlotte NC. USA
Posts: 57
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
I would say, check with your lbs. See if they will let you "test drive" a pair. They might, if you are willing to buy from them. If you never tried road shoes this could be a way to see for yourself.
The worst they can do is say no, and risk losing your busness.
:confused:
The worst they can do is say no, and risk losing your busness.
:confused:
#5
Banned.
Join Date: Aug 2001
Posts: 20,917
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 12 Times
in
10 Posts
I have been using mtn bike shoes with Look pedals on my road bike for four years - no complaints from me or others. As far how they look goes, who really cares?? Functional is best.
#6
Guest
Posts: n/a
Mentioned: Post(s)
Tagged: Thread(s)
Quoted: Post(s)
The stiffness of a road shoe really makes a difference. With good shoes and pedals, it will feel as though the whole sole is the pedal. The pedaling efficiency is greatly increased.
As far as walking in road shoes, cleat covers make that more comfortable and secure. I know that there are covers for LOOK and Speedplay cleats.
Rich
As far as walking in road shoes, cleat covers make that more comfortable and secure. I know that there are covers for LOOK and Speedplay cleats.
Rich
#7
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: Fargo, ND
Posts: 84
Bikes: 1971 Pugeot PX 10 - First real bike. Current ride is a new customized Bacchetta recumbent - Dura Ace/Ultegra
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Been wearing Lake Mtb. shoes w/ carbon soles and Kangaroo uppers for daily commutes as well as touring. They are plenty stiff as well as very functional. They don't look bad either.
#8
We drive on the left.
Join Date: Sep 2001
Location: Adelaide, South Australia
Posts: 1,096
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
I have used both Look and SPD pedals for years. I use them about 50-50 and I have never noticed any difference in performance other than walking issues and clipping in on a steep incline. Even on longer rides of 3+ hours I have never had any foot problems from either pedal system. Actually the Looks are quite dangerous if you have to walk anywhere with wet surfaces, like public toilets. That is one place you do not want to fall over.
So I would stick with the SPD's until they wear out.
CHEERS.
Mark
So I would stick with the SPD's until they wear out.
CHEERS.
Mark
#9
The clock's run out
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: McComb, MS
Posts: 361
Bikes: Fondriest Top Level
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Like Stinger9oh said, road shoes are stiffer and are for a reason. With MTB shoes the sole flexes more than the stiff carbon soles of most road shoes.
Stiffness ofers a more efficient transfer of energy to the pedals. When the MTB soles flex, energy transfer is not as efficient. This combined with the better selection of pedals and the weight difference will make a noticable difference.
Of course if you aren't into racing then this is really not the issue. FYI I use specialized allez MTB shoes too but since I am into the racing scene I will be soon upgrading my shoes along with my bike. The decision is yours and whichever you choose, you shouldn't be dissapointed.
Stiffness ofers a more efficient transfer of energy to the pedals. When the MTB soles flex, energy transfer is not as efficient. This combined with the better selection of pedals and the weight difference will make a noticable difference.
Of course if you aren't into racing then this is really not the issue. FYI I use specialized allez MTB shoes too but since I am into the racing scene I will be soon upgrading my shoes along with my bike. The decision is yours and whichever you choose, you shouldn't be dissapointed.
#10
Censorship Stinks!
Thread Starter
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: Texas
Posts: 389
Bikes: Three
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Thanks for the input everybody.
I see that there is not a 1 answer fits all, but I now understand the key differences.
Thanks,
Matt
:confused:
I see that there is not a 1 answer fits all, but I now understand the key differences.
Thanks,
Matt
:confused:
#11
1.64x10^6 posts
Join Date: Aug 2002
Location: Spring, TX
Posts: 501
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Matt,
I had the same dilemma a little while back and settled on Sidi Bullet MTB shoes and Time ATAC Alium pedals for my bike (Allez Sport, same as yours) and am quite happy with the combo. The Bullets don't really look like MTB shoes and the soles are plenty stiff.
I had the same dilemma a little while back and settled on Sidi Bullet MTB shoes and Time ATAC Alium pedals for my bike (Allez Sport, same as yours) and am quite happy with the combo. The Bullets don't really look like MTB shoes and the soles are plenty stiff.
#12
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 1999
Location: Southern California
Posts: 771
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
I transitioned into road biking slowly and used mtb shoes for some time.
You'll find that the right fitting road shoe can be as comfortable as any mtb shoe although harder to fist fight in.
As has been mentioned, the power transfer is more efficient with a solid sole and built in venting really helps on long hot rides.
A shoe that binds the ankle during a century ride could be disasterous.
Keep looking for the right shoe and take them when you find them.
You'll find that the right fitting road shoe can be as comfortable as any mtb shoe although harder to fist fight in.
As has been mentioned, the power transfer is more efficient with a solid sole and built in venting really helps on long hot rides.
A shoe that binds the ankle during a century ride could be disasterous.
Keep looking for the right shoe and take them when you find them.
#13
Sprockette
Join Date: Oct 2001
Location: Canada
Posts: 5,503
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
I had mtb shoes for a while because they were less expensive, I could walk in them and could use them on all my bikes. But I did move to road shoes (Nike Cipressa) for climbing. The stiff soles definitely have made a difference, and I wear my Look mtb shoes for offroad. Yes, you can walk better in them but if you want to climb road shoes make a big difference. ONe of the reasons I got the nikes is that I have narrow feet and they fit really well. Hey, if they're good enough for lance!
__________________
You can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar. That's great...if you want to attract vermin.
You can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar. That's great...if you want to attract vermin.
#14
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: So Cal
Posts: 4,665
Bikes: 2012 Trek Madone 6.2
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 2 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
If he doesnt care about weight,hes not going to care about stiffness.Remember,shoes,pedals,tires,hubs,rims,your pushing all that so weight will make a difference.Do you want to pedal an extra pound with every pedal for 25 miles.The grams will add up.
#15
Censorship Stinks!
Thread Starter
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: Texas
Posts: 389
Bikes: Three
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
shokhead -
When you said "Do you want to pedal an extra pound with every pedal for 25 miles.The grams will add up." The lightbulb finally went on for me.
With grams here and there on the bike with other items, I can just loose a few pounds, but I guess if the shoes weigh quite a bit that would add up since you are pedaling them at 90+ cadence.
Thanks everybody.
:thumbup:
When you said "Do you want to pedal an extra pound with every pedal for 25 miles.The grams will add up." The lightbulb finally went on for me.
With grams here and there on the bike with other items, I can just loose a few pounds, but I guess if the shoes weigh quite a bit that would add up since you are pedaling them at 90+ cadence.
Thanks everybody.
:thumbup:
#16
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2002
Location: Mississippi Gulf Coast
Posts: 94
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
I tried to do road shoes when I bought my new road bike, but they were just too uncomfortable.
To me, there's nothing worse on my bike than shoes that hurt.
I have a comfortable pair of Shimano touring/MTB shoes. I bought SpeedPlay Frog pedals, a MTB pedal that goes easy on my knees because of its unlimited float.
I'd say stick with your comfortable shoes.
To me, there's nothing worse on my bike than shoes that hurt.
I have a comfortable pair of Shimano touring/MTB shoes. I bought SpeedPlay Frog pedals, a MTB pedal that goes easy on my knees because of its unlimited float.
I'd say stick with your comfortable shoes.
#17
cycle-powered
Join Date: Mar 2002
Location: Munich Germany (formerly Portland OR, Texas)
Posts: 1,848
Bikes: '02 Specialized FSR, '03 RM Slayer, '99 Raleigh R700, '97 Norco hartail, '89 Stumpjumper
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
it depends on what kind of MTB shoes you have
- heavy sturdy shoes with not so stiff sole
- or light stiff-soled MTB race shoes
i don't know the numbers but i doubt some of the MTB race shoes are much heavier or less stiff than your average road shoes. then MTB race shoes are not cheap... and i'm sure that top-quality road-race shoes ARE lighter...
i would think you could stick with the MTB shoes and next time you need to buy ones compare MTB race shoes (for walking) and road shoes and see the difference in weight and stiffness.
unless you have some cheap heavy "freeride" MTB shoes with a pretty flexy sole it shouldn't make that much difference (unless you're very competitively racing - say cat 3 or higher - in which case you should just buy the "right" equipment)
- heavy sturdy shoes with not so stiff sole
- or light stiff-soled MTB race shoes
i don't know the numbers but i doubt some of the MTB race shoes are much heavier or less stiff than your average road shoes. then MTB race shoes are not cheap... and i'm sure that top-quality road-race shoes ARE lighter...
i would think you could stick with the MTB shoes and next time you need to buy ones compare MTB race shoes (for walking) and road shoes and see the difference in weight and stiffness.
unless you have some cheap heavy "freeride" MTB shoes with a pretty flexy sole it shouldn't make that much difference (unless you're very competitively racing - say cat 3 or higher - in which case you should just buy the "right" equipment)
#18
Guest
Posts: n/a
Mentioned: Post(s)
Tagged: Thread(s)
Quoted: Post(s)
Originally posted by condor
I tried to do road shoes when I bought my new road bike, but they were just too uncomfortable.
To me, there's nothing worse on my bike than shoes that hurt.
I have a comfortable pair of Shimano touring/MTB shoes. I bought SpeedPlay Frog pedals, a MTB pedal that goes easy on my knees because of its unlimited float.
I'd say stick with your comfortable shoes.
I tried to do road shoes when I bought my new road bike, but they were just too uncomfortable.
To me, there's nothing worse on my bike than shoes that hurt.
I have a comfortable pair of Shimano touring/MTB shoes. I bought SpeedPlay Frog pedals, a MTB pedal that goes easy on my knees because of its unlimited float.
I'd say stick with your comfortable shoes.
I have to disagree with Nathank when he says: "unless you have some cheap heavy "freeride" MTB shoes with a pretty flexy sole it shouldn't make that much difference (unless you're very competitively racing - say cat 3 or higher - in which case you should just buy the "right" equipment)" That much difference can mean real orthopedic problems with knees and hips as well as pedaling inefficiency that can waste energy that could be better used to make you a better rider. Good shoes are not just for competitive riders--and, no, I'm not a road shoe sales rep.
Rich
#19
Senior Member
Join Date: Mar 2000
Location: Parrish, FL
Posts: 7,963
Bikes: Lots
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Um, I think he said he had a Specialized shoe!
And a good one at that!
I'd stick to mtb shoes, and tell the "you have to wear road shoes on your road bike" snobs to stuff it. Also, wear your Camelback and Visor on your helmet, and oh yeah, don't shave your legs either! That's what I do. I even occassionally wear my baggies!
A stiff soled shoe like the one you own will work fine for the recreational riding you stated you do. If you start racing, then maybe switch, not necessary!
More importantly, what pedals are you using?
I use Time A.T.A.C's on my mtn bike and occcasionally switch them to my road bike when I use my road bike for commuting and times when I know I'm going to be walking around. I've found the difference in my Northwave mtn shoes to be negligible compared to road shoes, except when walking!
AAMOF, the Northwave shoes are identical except the mtn shoes have a different sole (w/lugs) glued to the bottom!
L8R
By the way, I am in a Specialied PRO MTB shoe, so it is not the bottom of the line shoe.
I'd stick to mtb shoes, and tell the "you have to wear road shoes on your road bike" snobs to stuff it. Also, wear your Camelback and Visor on your helmet, and oh yeah, don't shave your legs either! That's what I do. I even occassionally wear my baggies!
A stiff soled shoe like the one you own will work fine for the recreational riding you stated you do. If you start racing, then maybe switch, not necessary!
More importantly, what pedals are you using?
I use Time A.T.A.C's on my mtn bike and occcasionally switch them to my road bike when I use my road bike for commuting and times when I know I'm going to be walking around. I've found the difference in my Northwave mtn shoes to be negligible compared to road shoes, except when walking!
AAMOF, the Northwave shoes are identical except the mtn shoes have a different sole (w/lugs) glued to the bottom!
L8R
__________________
"Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, "WOW, What a Ride!" - unknown
"Your Bike Sucks" - Sky Yaeger
"Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, "WOW, What a Ride!" - unknown
"Your Bike Sucks" - Sky Yaeger
#20
Just ride.
I didn't see it mentioned, but IMO the most compelling reason to switch to a road-specific shoe/pedal is if you get "hot-spots"... discomfort in the area that your foot contacts the cleat/pedal on long rides or hammerfests. Road specific pedals usually have a larger contact area, and the shoe has a stiff sole that help spread the pressure over a larger surface area.
Way down the list is the fact that you will be a leper in the eyes of the roadie fashion police.
Way down the list is the fact that you will be a leper in the eyes of the roadie fashion police.
#21
Member
Join Date: Jun 2002
Location: Northern Virginia
Posts: 44
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
After trying a quite a few different road shoes I finally settled on Carnac Legends. Mine are quite a few years old and are still going strong. They have carbon soles and Kevlar straps. Mine lace under the straps but I'm not sure about the newer models. The pair I have are so old that they have Greg Lemond's signature on the straps. They used to be called Lemond Legends. They don't stretch much so make sure that they fit when they are new. The main reason I bought them is they have a wider design for us larger footed types. I have walked in them but only when absolutely necessary. The soles do not flex at all. I also still use the old SPD road pedal system with the tiny pedal to shoe contact area and have never had any hot spots. From my personal experience, I will never buy bike shoes that are a little tight with the hope that they will stretch with use. Tight shoes suck!
#22
The Flying Scot
Join Date: Aug 2001
Location: North Queensferry Scotland and London (and France)
Posts: 1,904
Bikes: Custom (Colin Laing) 531c fast tourer/audax, 1964 Flying Scot Continental, 1995 Cinelli Supercorsa, Holdsworth Mistral single speed, Dahon Speed 6 (folder), Micmo Sirocco and a few more
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
I use Specialised Comp MTB shoes which I can (just) walk in. Very very stiff stiff soles.
(as stiff as road shoes)
The weight issue is minimal. If you forget to have a cr*p before you ride, you'll have more than compensated for the weight difference
(as stiff as road shoes)
The weight issue is minimal. If you forget to have a cr*p before you ride, you'll have more than compensated for the weight difference
__________________
plus je vois les hommes, plus j'admire les chiens
1985 Sandy Gilchrist-Colin Laing built 531c Audax/fast tourer.
1964 Flying Scot Continental (531)
1995 Cinelli Supercorsa (Columbus SLX)
1980s Holdsworth Mistral fixed (531)
2005 Dahon Speed 6 (folder)
(YES I LIKE STEEL)
2008 Viking Saratoga tandem
2008 Micmo Sirocco Hybrid (aluminium!)
2012 BTwin Rockrider 8.1
plus je vois les hommes, plus j'admire les chiens
1985 Sandy Gilchrist-Colin Laing built 531c Audax/fast tourer.
1964 Flying Scot Continental (531)
1995 Cinelli Supercorsa (Columbus SLX)
1980s Holdsworth Mistral fixed (531)
2005 Dahon Speed 6 (folder)
(YES I LIKE STEEL)
2008 Viking Saratoga tandem
2008 Micmo Sirocco Hybrid (aluminium!)
2012 BTwin Rockrider 8.1
#24
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: Wisconsin
Posts: 144
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Don't forget that if you are not used to road shoes and have been riding in mountain bike shoes, that the first time you try to push off from a busy intersection while one foot is down can be a life altering experience. At least it was for me. It's much easier to get started in a hurry with mountain bike shoes on slick pavement.
__________________
BJ
When victory in battle is assured, time to tighten helmet strap.
BJ
When victory in battle is assured, time to tighten helmet strap.
#25
Censorship Stinks!
Thread Starter
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: Texas
Posts: 389
Bikes: Three
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Okay - I see, there is definately not one right answer.
I think I may begin slowly shopping for some road shoes this weekend. I have a gift certificate from my LBS that is burning a hole in my Jersey.
Matt
I think I may begin slowly shopping for some road shoes this weekend. I have a gift certificate from my LBS that is burning a hole in my Jersey.
Matt